WBCHSE changes Class 11 semester model paper pattern, pushes for MCQs, 'innovative' questions in English B

NEW DELHI: The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) has issued an official notification detailing changes and updates regarding the Class 11 semester model papers. The WBCHSE notice on Class 11 semester exams 2024-25 highlights new question format, revised model question papers, and modifications in syllabus across several subjects.

The board has also clarified subject-specific instructions and question patterns for various subjects like Bengali, English, history, modern computer application, and philosophy. Students will be able to access the WB Board Class 11 model question papers by visiting the official website, wbchse.wb.gov.in.

MCQs introduced in Class 11 English B course

The council announced that the first semester exam for Class 11 will feature multiple-choice questions (MCQs) as part of the English B course. Teachers have the flexibility to incorporate both traditional and innovative MCQs, such as diagram-based and chart-based questions, based on their discretion.

WB Class 11 Semester Exams: Difficulty level of questions

The distribution of question difficulty will follow this structure:

• 50% will be of ordinary difficulty.

• 30% will be moderately challenging.

• 20% will cater to exceptional students.

‘Innovative questions’

The council encouraged teachers to adopt diverse question formats. An example provided in the notice involves matching columns to assess students' understanding. The notice read, “Teachers are encouraged to choose the MCQ pattern and include various innovative question types based on their preferences and the needs of their students.”

Also read CBSE Board Exams 2025: 75% attendance must for students to be eligible, reiterates board

West Bengal Board Class 11 Exams: Changes in question patterns and syllabus

Students can have a look at the changes in model question paper, syllabus for West Bengal Class 11 semester exam below.

Bengali A

• There will no longer be separate 2 and 3 mark questions in semesters 2 and 4. Instead, a combined 2+3=5 mark structure will be followed.

• Topics that have a 5 mark question can be broken down into 2+3 or set as a single 5 mark question, based on the discretion of the paper setter.

English B

• As per the official notice, questions in semesters 2 and 4 must adhere to the published pattern, despite the extra alternatives in the model papers.
• For semester I, various types of MCQs will be included in the question papers.
• Question number 7 in semester 2 has been restructured:

• Paragraph Writing: “Your Neighbour and Locality” (150 words) – 10 marks

• Letter Writing: A letter to the editor on raising awareness about animal rights – 5 marks

• Event Report: Write a report on a "Tree Plantation Programme" held in your school – 5 marks

History, Philosophy, and Modern Computer Application:

• As per the official notice, revised model papers for semester 2 have been uploaded due to slight deviations from the prescribed pattern.

Costing and Taxation:

• Two sections have been removed from the Class 11 semester I syllabus:

  • Income from Dividend [Section 10(34)]

  • Income from Units [Section 10(35)]

The council stated that if there are any discrepancies between the published question pattern and the model question papers, the published pattern will take precedence. The Board has advised teachers, students, and parents to regularly check the notification section on the official website for the latest updates.